A New Era for Nebraska Football
The Cornhuskers are gearing up for their opening test of the 2026 season, a September 5 showdown with the Ohio Bobcats at Memorial Stadium. The matchup marks the first step in a schedule that promises to showcase a revamped roster brimming with talent and depth.
At the helm of the offense, sophomore quarterback Anthony Colandrea will take the snaps. A standout performer in the Mountain West last year, Colandrea earned Offensive Player of the Year honors while playing for UNLV before transferring to Virginia and now leading Nebraska’s attack.
The running back role is up for grabs, with Isaiah Mozee emerging as a top contender alongside Mekhi Nelson and Jamal Rule. Each brings a different skill set, and coaches are evaluating who can best complement the new-look offensive line.
Wide receivers Nyziah Hunter, Jacory Barney Jr., and Kwazi Gilmer are expected to start, anchored by Hunter, who led the team last season with 43 catches for 617 yards and five touchdowns. At tight end, Luke Lindenmeyer returns after a productive 2025 campaign that saw him record 29 receptions for 312 yards and two scores.
Nebraska’s offensive line boasts returning seniors Elijah Pritchett and Justin Evans, while fresh faces such as Tree Babalade, Paul Mubenga and Brendan Black are expected to elevate the unit to one of the best in recent memory.
Defensively, the line will feature edge rushers Williams Nwaneri and Cameron Lenhardt, along with projected starter Jahsear Whittington at tackle. The front seven will be complemented by linebackers Owen Chambliss and Vincent Shavers Jr., who are expected to anchor the middle of the defense.
The secondary will be manned by cornerbacks Andrew Marshall and Jeremiah Charles, while Dwayne McDougle and Jamir Conn are slated to start at safety. Nickel back Donovan Jones adds versatility to the defensive scheme.
Coaches have emphasized putting the five best players on the field, creating intense competition across every position. This battle for spots has defined the fall camp and will ultimately shape the lineup that takes the field against Ohio.
The game is set for September 5 at Memorial Stadium, where the Cornhuskers hope to translate their deep, competitive roster into a strong start to the season.